As we close out 2025, the team at Carson Wealth Pella is grateful for another meaningful year filled with relationships, milestones, and opportunities to serve our clients and community. The fourth quarter was especially full—both personally and professionally—and we’re excited to share a few highlights along with timely planning insights as we head into the new year.
Celebrating Our Clients & Community
Family Photo Day – October 5
One of our favorite traditions returned this fall with our Client Family Photo Event. Families stopped by for professional photos—perfect for holiday cards—and then walked over to Smokey Row Coffee to enjoy coffee or ice cream. It was a relaxed, fun afternoon and a great reminder of why relationships are at the heart of what we do.
Giving Back Through the Contributors Breakfast Club
This year, Zach continued his involvement with the Contributors Breakfast Club (CBC), a group focused on supporting underprivileged youth in our communities. In 2025 alone, CBC donated over $100,000 to local charities.
The group also hosted three successful fundraising events:
- A Tough Mudder race at Wildwood Ranch
- A Golf Outing that Sam joined in on
- A Summer Social at Jasper Winery
We’re proud to support organizations making a real impact. To learn more about CBC, visit their website:
👉 https://contributorsbc.com/
Team & Family Highlights
A Growing Family
October brought an especially joyful milestone for our team. Stetson James (“SJ”) Vande Weerd was born on October 17, 2025, to Zach and Hannah. SJ is Sam’s fourth grandchild, and we couldn’t be happier for the growing Vande Weerd family.
Music, Football, and Travel
- Sam reunited with college friends for a concert at the Casey’s Center, proving that good music and great friendships never go out of style.
- A lifelong Hawkeye, Sam also made it to the Iowa vs. Penn State football game, enjoying a classic fall Saturday with friends.
- Over Thanksgiving, Sam traveled to Texas to visit his son Ross—and enjoyed what he claims was the best steak of his life.
Holiday Gatherings & Partnerships
Client Christmas Party – December 1
We were thrilled to welcome clients to the Pella Opera House for our annual Christmas Party. The evening featured:
- A live violin and cello duo
- Appetizers and drinks
- Plenty of conversation and fellowship
It was a wonderful way to celebrate the season together.
Premier Bank Open House – December 16
We were honored to join Premier Bank, a valued partner serving Rock Valley and surrounding communities, at their open house. The Carson Wealth Pella team brought along Jaarsma Bakery treats to share with the community—because no gathering is complete without something sweet.
Financial Planning Corner: Did You Know?
2025 IRA Contributions Are Still Available
You can still make 2025 IRA contributions up until the tax filing deadline in April 2026. This can be a powerful last-minute way to reduce taxable income or boost tax-free growth, depending on the type of IRA.
2026 Contribution Limits (For Planning Ahead)
Here’s what to keep in mind as we head into the new year:
401(k) Plans
- Employee deferral limit: $24,500
- Catch-up (age 50+): $8,000
- Enhanced catch-up (ages 60–63): up to $11,250 (subject to plan rules)
IRAs
- Contribution limit: $7,500
- Catch-up (age 50+): $1,100
If you’re unsure how these limits fit into your broader plan, we’re happy to help.
Tax Tip: SALT & Senior Deduction Awareness
- The SALT deduction cap for tax payers who itemize increases up to $40,000, which continues to affect many households—especially those who itemize. Strategic planning around charitable giving, timing of deductions, and overall tax exposure remains critical.
- For clients age 65 and older, the enhanced senior deduction introduced in recent tax law changes may provide additional relief beyond the standard deduction. Eligibility and benefits vary, so it’s worth reviewing how this applies to your situation.
A Few Personal Favorites from Our Team
As the year wrapped up, we asked our team to share a favorite Christmas memory or gift from 2025:
- Sam: In addition to spending meaningful time with family—and celebrating the arrival of a new grandchild—Sam especially enjoyed a new Bushnell golf speaker from his kids. He’s already looking forward to getting back on the course this summer with friends, family, and clients.
- Zach: Celebrating SJ’s first Christmas and beginning new traditions as a growing family made this holiday season especially memorable. He also enjoyed baking cheesecakes at his various family gatherings!
- Amy: Her favorite gift was quality time with family, including taking their two older kids to a basketball camp at the University of Kansas. “Our kids love interacting with the players, and we always enjoy exploring Lawrence a little bit,” she shared.
- Tricia: Spending time with family topped her list this year — from making and decorating cookies to trying out new games together — all while savoring the simple joy of being present during the holiday season.
Thank You — And an Invitation
We’re grateful for the trust you place in Carson Wealth Pella. Consider sharing your experience with others via a Google review or an introduction to family or friends is always appreciated as we continue to grow.
Here’s to a great 2026 ahead!
